Deuteronomy 2:3

Authorized King James Version

Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רַב
long enough
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#2
לָכֶ֕ם
H0
#3
סֹ֖ב
Ye have compassed
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
#4
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
הָהָ֣ר
this mountain
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#6
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#7
פְּנ֥וּ
turn
to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc
#8
לָכֶ֖ם
H0
#9
צָפֹֽנָה׃
you northward
properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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